Why Man United could be barred from playing in the Europa League despite winning the FA Cup
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Real Madrid defender, Antonio Rudiger, shared deep affection for his African heritage after helping the Spanish giants win the 2023/24 UEFA Champions League.
The Germany centre-back featured in the final at Wembley against the club that nurtured him, Borussia Dortmund, as second-half goals from Dani Carvajal and Vinicius Junior secured a 15th title for Los Blancos.
Why Man United could be barred from playing in the Europa League despite winning the FA Cup
FootballBorn in Germany to Sierra Leonean parents, the defender clearly enjoyed the moment, celebrating with the flag of the West African nation.
In a video that has since gone viral on social media, Rudiger is seen screaming 'Sierra Leone' in excitement, as he becomes the first player with an origin from the country to win the Champions League.
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The former AS Roma defender has now won the competition two times and starred in both finals as Chelsea and Real Madrid were crowned champions.
He left the London club to join Real Madrid in the summer of 2021, the same year he won his first Champions League title.
The Germany international made 12 appearances, delivering two assists in the competition this season, per Transfermarkt.
The 31-year-old defender shared his excitement after the match, claiming it was his dream to win the UEFA Champions League with Real Madrid.
Real Madrid superstar Jude Bellingham beats teammate Vinicius Junior to top prize in La Liga
FootballIn his second season at the Spanish capital, Rudiger played a pivotal role in Carlo Ancelotti's success, as they won the double.
"More than a dream. Winning the UCL with the best club in the world. What an amazing night. Hala Madrid," he wrote on Instagram after the match.
Rudiger has been named in Germany's squad for this summer's European championship at home.
Earlier, Sports Brief reported that Real Madrid withstood a Dortmund barrage to win the UCL for the 15th time as Dani Carvajal and Vinicius Junior struck late in a 2-0 win at Wembley on Saturday.
Right-back, Carvajal, headed in from Toni Kroos' corner at 74 minutes before Vini fired into the far corner to extend the Spanish giants' record as the most successful club in Champions League history.
Real Madrid have now won their last nine European Cup finals and won the competition six times in the last 11 seasons, cementing their place as one of Europe's most successful football teams.